Moss Remover
Are You In Need Of An Effective Moss Remover?
Before you run to your local nursery in a panic looking for a moss remover and spend a fortune, you should know that you can get rid of it naturally.
If you are looking for a moss remover, you are probably already aware that it spreads fast. These are unique plants that reproduce with their spores, kind of like fungus. They are also a little different than most other plants because they are able to survive without a vascular system. Moss can actually be useful, but most people look at it as being nothing more than unsightly green fuzz that can also be quite destructive.
Getting Rid Of Moss
- Keep a Healthy Lawn – If you are in need of a moss remover, you may want to first evaluate your lawn. Moss typically chooses to take over a lawn that is not being properly maintained. Dead patches that are result of poor aeration, lack of fertilization and compaction is where they are drawn to. If you have a healthy lawn, moss will have no where to grow. Yearly fertilization and aeration can go a long way and you should also add new soil as well as grass seed to dead spots.
- Eliminate Shade – Moss loves shade and if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you will probably notice that it grows on all the north sides of trees in the forest. While they do enjoy a bit of natural light, direct sunlight is not tolerated. Trim a few branches in areas where shade is taking over and you will probably see a huge difference.
- Dry up Dampness – If you have a soggy lawn, you will most likely need a moss remover. Keep in mind that moss thrives in swamps and bogs, so it only makes sense that it would make itself at home in your wet lawn. Make sure that you are providing adequate drainage for any runoffs or other water sources.
- Organic Herbicide – You will find that there are quite a few products that are developed specifically to get rid of algae and moss. Most of these are made up of potassium salts from fatty acids, citric acid, sodium lauryl sulfate, clove oil or acetic acid in any sort of combination. Keep in mind that although these products are natural and considered safer than a commercial moss remover, you still need to exercise caution when applying and be mindful of pets and other yard animals.
- Acid vs Base – Moss envoys a slightly acidic environment so if you change the soil's concentration with garden lime or vinegar, it will certainly not be appreciated. These are products that can affect animals and other plants in a negative way so be careful when you spray.
- Physical Removal – If you really have an area being plagued with moss, kill and remove it. Physical removal is easiest done with a shovel or a rake and to make the job even easier, use a dethatcher or a tiller. If you are dealing with moss up on your roof or some other type of architectural surface, a brush or scraper will help tremendously. Keep in mind that the air is full of moss spores so unless you change the conditions, they will quickly return.
- Dish Soap – This is a really simple moss remover you can make yourself. Mix one gallon of water with four ounces of Dawn liquid dish soap and then transfer to a spray bottle. Hold the nozzle about two inches away from the moss and then drown it with the solution. Within 24 hours, the moss should turn brown and dry up.
- Become Friends – If you are losing your battle against moss, perhaps it is just meant to be in your yard. Since the spores are in the air, why not create a specific place with the ideal environment that is shaded for it to be attracted to. Lay a few decorative rocks or statues down and keep them watered and the moss is sure to migrate from your lawn to a more inviting area.